Sports
“HBCU Football Week 0 & Week 1: Pre-Game Hype and Key Matchups”
Introduction:
As the 2024 HBCU football season kicks off, Week 0 and Week 1 bring us a host of exciting matchups across all conferences, including the MEAC, SWAC, CIAA, SIAC, and the newly rebranded HBCU Athletic Conference (formerly Gulf Coast Conference). From historic rivalries to key non-conference tests, these early-season games set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying season.
Week 0: Setting the Stage
Week 0 gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming season with a handful of games that will undoubtedly lay the groundwork for what’s to come. Key games to watch include:
- UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves (08-29-2024): Alcorn State faces a tough test against UAB, a team known for its formidable defense.
- Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Howard Bison (08-29-2024): Howard hits the road to take on Rutgers in a game that could showcase the Bison’s potential this season.
Week 1: Full Slate of Action
Week 1 ramps up the excitement with a full slate of games. Every HBCU football fan will have something to cheer for with several high-profile matchups:
- Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies (08-30-2024): North Carolina A&T aims to prove they can compete with Power 5 schools.
- Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions (08-31-2024): The Golden Lions have a chance to make a statement against an SEC opponent.
Pre-Game Summaries: What to Expect
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect from each game:
- Bluefield State Big Blues vs. Winston-Salem State Rams (08-31-2024): A CIAA battle that promises to be a defensive struggle.
- Alabama State Hornets vs. North Carolina Central Eagles (09-07-2024): This matchup could be a preview of a future playoff clash, with both teams eyeing conference titles.
Game to Watch: Prairie View A&M vs. Texas Southern
One of the most anticipated games of Week 1 is the SWAC showdown between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern. This rivalry game is always intense, and with both teams hungry for a strong start, expect fireworks on the field.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
The early weeks of the 2024 season are crucial for establishing momentum. Whether it’s a powerhouse program defending its title or an underdog looking to upset the big boys, every game counts. HBCU football is more than just a game; it’s a tradition, a culture, and a community. Let’s get ready for a season to remember!
Share Your Thoughts:
Which games are you most excited about? Drop your predictions in the comments and join the conversation as we celebrate the kickoff of another thrilling HBCU football season!
#HBCUFootball #Week0 #Week1 #GameDay #SWAC #MEAC #CIAA #SIAC #GamedayVibes
This post provides a comprehensive overview of the key matchups, offering insights into what fans can expect as they gear up for the 2024 HBCU football season. It’s crafted to engage your audience and spark conversation as the season unfolds.
GAMES TO WATCH OUT FOR++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
1. UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
UAB, coming off a solid 2023 season in Conference USA, will open their 2024 campaign at home against Alcorn State. The Blazers are known for their stout defense, which ranked in the top 25 nationally last season. Alcorn State, representing the SWAC, is looking to build on its previous success and make a statement against an FBS opponent. The Braves’ dynamic offense, led by their dual-threat quarterback, will be key to their chances of pulling off an upset.
2. Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies
Date: August 30, 2024
Summary:
Wake Forest, a team known for its fast-paced offense in the ACC, faces off against North Carolina A&T, a perennial powerhouse in the MEAC. The Aggies have a strong history of upsets against FBS teams and will be looking to showcase their talent on a bigger stage. With a solid defensive line and a capable running game, North Carolina A&T hopes to slow down the Demon Deacons and control the clock.
3. Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
In a battle of in-state rivals, Arkansas will host Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The Razorbacks, competing in the SEC, are looking to start their season with a dominant performance. Pine Bluff, however, will not be easily intimidated. As one of the top programs in the SWAC, they have the potential to make things difficult, especially if their defense can force turnovers and keep the game close.
4. Bluefield State Big Blues vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Bluefield State, an independent DII program, will face off against Winston-Salem State from the CIAA. This matchup pits two teams looking to start the season strong. Winston-Salem State, with its storied football tradition, is favored, but Bluefield State’s up-and-coming program could surprise many. Key to the game will be the Rams’ ability to establish their running game early.
5. South Florida Bulls vs. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats
Date: September 1, 2024
Summary:
South Florida will kick off their season by hosting Bethune-Cookman from the SWAC. The Bulls, part of the AAC, have been rebuilding and are looking to regain their competitive edg
e. Bethune-Cookman, meanwhile, will aim to capita
lize on any early-season rust from their FBS oppon
ent. The Wildcats’ success will likely hinge on their ability to execute on special teams and create big plays.
6. Alabama State Hornets vs. North Carolina Central Eagles
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alabama State takes on North Carolina Central in what promises to be a physical contest. Both teams are highly regarded in their respective conferences, with strong defenses and efficient offenses. Alabama State will look to leverage their home-field advantage, while North Carolina Central will rely on their disciplined approach to control the game’s tempo.
7. Miles Golden Bears vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alabama State will face Miles College in this Week 2 matchup, providing the Hornets an opportunity to fine-tune their game before heading into conference play. Miles, from the SIAC, will aim to showcase their resilience and compete against a higher division team. The game will be a test of depth and endurance, particularly for the Golden Bears.
8. Rice Owls vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Rice, from Conference USA, will host Texas Southern from the SWAC in a cross-divisional matchup. The Owls are known for their strong running game, while Texas Southern will be looking to bring their explosive passing attack to the forefront. This game could be a shootout if both offenses find their rhythm early.
9. Samford Bulldogs vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
In a matchup featuring two teams known for their physicality, Samford will take on Alabama State. The Bulldogs, from the Southern Conference, are always a tough out, and the Hornets will need to be at their best to secure a win. The game could hinge on which team can win the battle in the trenches.
10. North Carolina Tar Heels vs. North Carolina Central Eagles
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
This in-state clash between the ACC’s North Carolina Tar Heels and MEAC’s North Carolina Central Eagles is one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. The Tar Heels, with their high-powered offense, will look to outpace the Eagles, who will rely on a disciplined defense to keep them in the game. This game offers a big opportunity for Central to make a statement on a national stage.
11. Lamar Cardinals vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
Lamar will host Texas Southern in what could be a pivotal game for both programs. The Cardinals, looking to improve their standing in the Southland Conference, will face a Texas Southern team that’s eager to prove itself in the SWAC. The outcome will likely depend on which team can control the line of scrimmage and sustain drives.
12. Virginia Union Panthers vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
A classic CIAA matchup, Virginia Union and Winston-Salem State are two of the top programs in the conference. This game could have playoff implications, as both teams are expected to contend for the CIAA title. Look for a hard-fought battle with plenty of intensity on both sides of the ball.
13. Texas Southern Tigers vs. Virginia-Lynchburg Mystic Dragons
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Texas Southern will open their season against Virginia-Lynchburg in a non-conference matchup. The Tigers will be looking to establish their offense early and build confidence heading into the heart of their schedule. Virginia-Lynchburg, an independent program, will aim to compete and potentially pull off a surprise.
14. Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Howard Bison
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Rutgers, a member of the Big Ten, will host the Howard Bison in a game that pits an FBS powerhouse against one of the MEAC’s storied programs. Howard will look to test themselves against top-tier competition, while Rutgers aims to start the season on a strong note. The Bison’s defense will be crucial in keeping this game competitive.
15. UL Monroe Warhawks vs. Jackson State Tigers
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Jackson State, fresh off a successful season, will travel to take on UL Monroe. The Tigers, who have been a force in the SWAC, will look to challenge the Warhawks of the Sun Belt Conference. The key to the game will be Jackson State’s ability to maintain offensive balance and keep the Warhawks on their heels.
16. Auburn Tigers vs. Alabama A&M Bulldogs
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Alabama A&M faces a tough challenge as they travel to face Auburn, a perennial SEC contender. The Bulldogs will need to execute flawlessly to stay in the game, especially against Auburn’s powerful defense. For Auburn, this game serves as an opportunity to fine-tune their strategy before heading into the SEC schedule.
17. East Carolina Pirates vs. Norfolk State Spartans
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Norfolk State, representing the MEAC, will take on East Carolina from the AAC. The Spartans will look to upset the Pirates by playing disciplined football and capitalizing on any mistakes. East Carolina will aim to overwhelm Norfolk State with their speed and athleticism on both sides of the ball.
18. Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alcorn State faces a tough test against Vanderbilt from the SEC. The Braves will need to be sharp on both offense and defense to keep pace with the Commodores. This game provides an opportunity for Alcorn State to measure themselves against a higher level of competition and showcase their talent on a larger stage.
19. Miami Hurricanes vs. Florida A&M Rattlers
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
In a classic Florida matchup, Florida A&M will take on the Miami Hurricanes. The Rattlers, known for their strong tradition in the SWAC, will face an uphill battle against Miami’s speed and depth. However, with a strong showing, Florida A&M can gain valuable experience and potentially put a scare into their in-state rivals.
20. West Virginia State Yellow Jackets vs. Carson-Newman Eagles
Date: September 12, 2024
Summary:
West Virginia State will host Carson-Newman in this early-season non-conference matchup. The Yellow Jackets will look to establish themselves as contenders in their conference, while Carson-Newman will aim to spoil their plans. The key to victory for West Virginia State will be maintaining discipline and executing on both sides of the ball.
**21. Delaware StateContinuing with the remaining pre-game summaries:
21. Delaware State Hornets vs. Wagner Seahawks
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Delaware State travels to face Wagner in what promises to be a competitive game. The Hornets, representing the MEAC, will look to showcase their defensive strength against Wagner, a member of the Northeast Conference. Both teams are known for their physical play, and the winner will likely be the team that can control the line of scrimmage and minimize turnovers.
22. Richmond Spiders vs. Delaware State Hornets
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
Delaware State faces a challenging road test against the Richmond Spiders, a strong program in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). The Hornets will need to bring their best effort, particularly on defense, to contain Richmond’s balanced attack. For Richmond, this game serves as an opportunity to tune up before diving into conference play.
23. Winston-Salem State Rams vs. Bowie State Bulldogs
Date: September 28, 2024
Summary:
In a key CIAA matchup, Winston-Salem State will take on Bowie State. Both teams have championship aspirations, making this game a crucial early-season contest. Winston-Salem State will rely on their experienced defense to keep Bowie State’s offense in check, while the Bulldogs will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Rams’ secondary.
24. Richmond Spiders vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
North Carolina A&T will be tested against Richmond in what should be a closely contested game. The Aggies have a tradition of performing well against strong competition, and this game will be no different. Richmond’s well-rounded team will provide a tough challenge, but North Carolina A&T’s defense could be the key to pulling off an upset.
25. Morehead State Eagles vs. Central State Marauders
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Central State opens their season against Morehead State in what could be an interesting non-conference matchup. The Marauders will look to get their offense going early, while Morehead State will aim to impose their will with a balanced attack. The outcome could hinge on which team can establish a consistent ground game.
26. UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: August 30, 2024
Summary:
Alcorn State faces UAB in what will be a tough test for the Braves. UAB’s defense is one of the best in Conference USA, and the Braves will need to find creative ways to move the ball. On the flip side, UAB will look to assert their dominance early, but Alcorn State’s gritty style of play could keep the game closer than expected.
27. Wagner Seahawks vs. Virginia-Lynchburg Mystic Dragons
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Wagner will face Virginia-Lynchburg in a game that should serve as a confidence-builder for the Seahawks. Virginia-Lynchburg, while capable of big plays, will need to play a near-perfect game to keep pace with Wagner. The Mystic Dragons will rely on their speed and special teams to try to create scoring opportunities.
28. Prairie View A&M Panthers vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
This SWAC rivalry game between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern is one of the most anticipated matchups of the early season. Prairie View A&M, known for their high-powered offense, will look to put up points in bunches, while Texas Southern’s defense will need to step up to keep the game within reach. The game could come down to which team wins the turnover battle.
29. Arkansas Baptist Buffaloes vs. John Melvin Millers
Date: September 1, 2024
Summary:
In this non-conference matchup, Arkansas Baptist takes on John Melvin. Both teams will be looking to establish themselves early in the season, with Arkansas Baptist focusing on their running game, while John Melvin might rely on their passing attack. The game could be decided by which team can control the clock and execute in the red zone.
30. Concord Mountain Lions vs. Bluefield State Big Blues
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Bluefield State will host Concord in a game that promises to be a defensive battle. Both teams have strong defenses, so the game could be a low-scoring affair. Bluefield State will look to get their ground game going, while Concord will try to spread the field with their passing attack.
31. North Carolina A&T Aggies vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
This matchup between North Carolina A&T and Winston-Salem State features two of the top programs in HBCU football. The Aggies, coming off a strong 2023 season, will look to dominate with their physical style of play. Winston-Salem State, however, has the talent to make this a close game, particularly if their defense can hold up against A&T’s running game.
32. Winston-Salem State Rams vs. Ohio Dominican Panthers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Winston-Salem State faces Ohio Dominican in what could be a challenging non-conference game. The Panthers have a potent offense that could test the Rams’ secondary. Winston-Salem State will need to control the tempo and keep Ohio Dominican’s offense off the field to have a chance of winning.
33. Michigan State Spartans vs. Prairie View A&M Panthers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Prairie View A&M travels to take on Michigan State, an opponent from the Big Ten. The Panthers will face a tough challenge against a Spartan team known for their physicality and depth. Prairie View A&M’s best chance for success will be to strike early and try to force Michigan State into mistakes.
34. Virginia State Trojans vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
Winston-Salem State faces a crucial CIAA matchup against Virginia State. Both teams are considered contenders in the conference, making this game an important one for both programs. Expect a hard-fought, physical game with the winner gaining an early edge in the CIAA standings.
35. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 28, 2024
Summary:
This SWAC showdown between Bethune-Cookman and Alabama State could have major implications for the conference standings. The Wildcats will look to use their speed to outpace the Hornets, while Alabama State will try to control the game with their physical style of play. Special teams could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
36. Alabama State Hornets vs. Florida A&M Rattlers
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
In one of the biggest games on the SWAC calendar, Alabama State takes on Florida A&M. The Rattlers, with their explosive offense, will be looking to put up big numbers, while Alabama State will rely on their strong defense to keep the game close. This game could have major implications for the SWAC East Division title.
SIAC Week 9: Edward Waters and Central State Headline Conference Showdowns
Conference title hopes and NCAA playoff positioning add weight to a weekend featuring Edward Waters at Central State, Savannah State at Benedict, and Tuskegee at Lane.
ATLANTA. The SIAC football race enters another important weekend as teams look to protect their championship hopes, improve their postseason standing, and build momentum heading into November.
Edward Waters and Central State headline Saturday’s schedule with matching conference records of five wins and one loss. Benedict also enters with one SIAC defeat, setting up a weekend that could shift the race near the top of the standings.
According to the conference’s October 29 preview, Edward Waters, Benedict, and Central State entered the week ranked second, third, and fifth, respectively, in the October 25 NCAA Power Index for Super Region Two.
Edward Waters and Central State Bring Offensive Firepower
Edward Waters travels to McPherson Stadium in Wilberforce, Ohio, for a 2 p.m. ET matchup Saturday against Central State. The game will stream on the SIAC Network.
The Tigers enter with six wins and two losses after overwhelming Clark Atlanta 62 to 14. Quarterback Tavion Faulk accounted for seven touchdowns, throwing five and rushing for two, as Edward Waters piled up 600 yards of offense.
Running back Johntarrious Thomas added 132 rushing yards, giving the Tigers another threat alongside their productive passing attack.
Central State arrives with five wins and three losses following a 48 to 20 victory over Miles. Quarterback Jackson Wasik threw four touchdown passes and added another score on the ground.
The Marauders also made their presence felt defensively, recording six sacks and forcing three turnovers. That pressure could be a deciding factor against an Edward Waters offense coming off one of its strongest performances of the season.
Central State won last year’s meeting 21 to 17, leaving the series tied at two victories apiece.
Benedict Looks to Hold Its Position Against Savannah State
Benedict hosts Savannah State at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium on Saturday at 2 p.m. ET, with coverage on ESPN+.
Benedict enters with seven wins and one loss after defeating Albany State 29 to 8. Its defense held the Golden Rams to 152 total yards, recorded four sacks, and forced three turnovers.
Running back David Smith supplied 113 rushing yards and a touchdown. Kicker Zane Spires added field goals from 53, 54, and 48 yards.
Savannah State has one win and seven losses, but its latest performance gives Benedict reason to pay attention. The Tigers generated 481 yards against Kentucky State and held a 24 to 20 lead with just over a minute remaining before falling 27 to 24.
That effort included 221 rushing yards and 260 passing yards. Repeating that balance against Benedict’s defense will be a major test.
The teams needed double overtime to settle last season’s meeting, with Benedict winning 16 to 13.
Albany State and Clark Atlanta Seek a Response
Albany State visits Clark Atlanta at Panther Stadium on Saturday at 2 p.m. ET. The game will air on ESPN+.
Both teams are looking to recover from difficult losses. Albany State fell 29 to 8 against Benedict, while Clark Atlanta surrendered 600 yards in its 62 to 14 defeat at Edward Waters.
The Golden Rams enter with three wins and five losses overall and an even conference record through six games. Their offense will need a stronger showing after producing only seven first downs and converting two of 18 third down attempts against Benedict.
Clark Atlanta enters with two wins and six losses, including two conference victories. Limiting big plays and sustaining possessions will be priorities as the Panthers return home.
Morehouse Returns From Break to Face Allen
Morehouse heads to Charles F. Bolden Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina, for a Saturday matchup with Allen. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET on the SIAC Network.
The Maroon Tigers enter with three wins and five losses after an open weekend. In their previous outing, Morehouse tied Howard at 17 in the third quarter before the Bison pulled away for a 31 to 17 victory.
Quarterback Miles Scott accounted for both Morehouse touchdowns, while Steven Copeland II led the defense with 11 tackles and a sack.
Allen enters with two wins and six losses after falling 26 to 23 against Tuskegee. Quarterback Brent Upshaw Jr. produced 260 yards of total offense and a rushing touchdown, helping the Yellow Jackets stay within reach.
Allen won last season’s meeting 28 to 17.
Tuskegee Visits Lane for Homecoming
Tuskegee will try to earn its third straight conference victory when it visits Lane Field in Jackson, Tennessee, on Saturday. Lane’s Homecoming game begins at 3 p.m. ET, or 2 p.m. CT, on the SIAC Network.
The Golden Tigers enter with four wins and four losses overall and four victories in six conference games. Their rushing attack produced 287 yards in last week’s 26 to 23 win over Allen.
Ja’Khael Rowser led the way with 131 rushing yards and a touchdown. Preston Parker delivered a major special teams play, returning a punt 50 yards for a fourth quarter score.
Lane earned its first victory of the season by defeating Fort Valley State 16 to 6. The Dragons forced four turnovers and finished a lengthy fourth quarter drive with a touchdown pass from Tametrius Pogue to Landon Wilson.
Lane will look to carry that defensive effort into its Homecoming matchup against a Tuskegee team that won last year’s meeting 18 to 13.
Thursday Matchup Opened the Week 9 Schedule
The conference’s Week 9 schedule also included Fort Valley State at Miles on Thursday, October 29.
Entering that matchup, Fort Valley State was coming off its loss to Lane, while Miles was looking to respond after falling to Central State. Ball security was a concern for both programs after they combined for seven turnovers in their previous games.
Saturday’s slate now puts the focus on the conference contenders, with Edward Waters, Central State, and Benedict each looking to strengthen their position as the regular season winds down.
Tags: SIAC Football, SIAC Week 9, HBCU Football, HBCU Sports, HBCU Original, NCAA Division II Football, Edward Waters, Central State, Benedict College, Savannah State, Albany State, Clark Atlanta, Morehouse College, Allen University, Tuskegee University, Lane College, Fort Valley State, Miles College, Tavion Faulk, Jackson Wasik, College Football
NCCU Returns Home to Face Howard as Both Teams Seek 2 and 0 MEAC Start
The Eagles look to build on their win over Delaware State as the Bison arrive in Durham with two straight victories.
DURHAM, N.C. North Carolina Central and Howard will meet Saturday with both teams looking to stay unbeaten in conference play. Kickoff at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium is scheduled for 2 p.m., with live coverage on ESPN+.
The Eagles enter at 3 and 5 overall and 1 and 0 in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference after defeating Delaware State 31 to 12. Howard comes in at 4 and 4 overall and 1 and 0 in the MEAC following a 26 to 20 overtime victory over Morgan State.
Saturday marks the 30th meeting between the programs. NCCU holds an 18 to 10 series advantage with one tie and has won 12 of the last 13 matchups. Eagles head coach Trei Oliver is 5 and 1 against the Bison.
Freshman running back Gino Addison gives NCCU plenty of momentum heading into the matchup. He rushed for a career best 214 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries against Delaware State, helping the Eagles end a four game losing streak.
That performance followed a 169 yard outing against William & Mary, giving Addison consecutive games above 100 rushing yards. He has totaled 456 yards and three touchdowns on 66 carries this season.
Quarterback Cobey Thompkins added 155 passing yards and a touchdown against the Hornets. NCCU finished with 427 total yards, marking its second consecutive game with at least 400 yards of offense.
The Eagles have also made takeaways a major part of their defense. According to NCCU’s game notes, the team leads the Football Championship Subdivision with 18 turnovers gained through eight games, including eight fumble recoveries and 10 interceptions.
Freshman defensive back Amari Sifford intercepted two passes against Delaware State, bringing his season total to three. Junior defensive lineman Zarion Walters has added two fumble recoveries.
Howard arrives with momentum of its own under first year head coach Ted White, a former Bison quarterback. The team has won two straight games after being picked to finish sixth in the MEAC preseason poll.
Quarterback Ja’Shawn Scroggins averages 136.5 passing yards per game and has thrown six touchdown passes. Running back Eden James, a preseason First Team All-MEAC selection, averages just under 40 rushing yards per game. Kaleb Gallop leads Howard’s defense with 44 tackles.
For NCCU, Saturday offers a chance to respond at home after a narrow 17 to 14 Homecoming loss to William & Mary on October 10. The Eagles are 22 and 11 at home under Oliver and have posted winning home records in four of the last five seasons.
Picked to finish second behind defending champion South Carolina State, NCCU is looking to remain near the front of the conference race. The Eagles are 23 and 11 in MEAC play under Oliver, whose tenure includes the 2022 conference championship and a Celebration Bowl victory over Jackson State.
The matchup also features the MEAC’s two head coaches leading their alma maters. Oliver returned to NCCU as head coach in December 2018, while White took over at Howard in January 2026.
With both programs coming off conference wins, Saturday gives each an opportunity to strengthen its position early in the MEAC schedule.
Tags: North Carolina Central University, NCCU Eagles, Howard University, Howard Bison, MEAC Football, HBCU Football, HBCU Sports, HBCU Original, Gino Addison, Trei Oliver, Ted White, Cobey Thompkins, Amari Sifford, College Football, Durham North Carolina
Faulk’s Seven Touchdowns Lead SIAC Football Weekly Honors
ATLANTA — A seven-touchdown outing by Edward Waters quarterback Tavion Faulk and two school-record field goals by Benedict’s Zane Spires highlighted the SIAC football awards announced Oct. 27.
Faulk earned Offensive Player of the Week after powering Edward Waters past Clark Atlanta, 62-14. The senior completed 19 of 22 passes for 367 yards and five touchdowns without an interception, adding 33 rushing yards and two scores.
Kentucky State defensive back Lawrence McConnell claimed Defensive Player of the Week following a 27-24 win over Savannah State. He collected nine tackles, seven solo, and two interceptions, returning one 84 yards for a touchdown. McConnell also recorded a sack.
Spires secured Special Teams Player of the Week in Benedict’s 29-8 victory over Albany State. His 53-yard field goal established a school record that he broke with a 54-yarder before halftime. He later connected from 48 yards.
Edward Waters receiver Tylon Williams received Newcomer of the Week after catching six passes for 171 yards against Clark Atlanta, including a 78-yard touchdown.
HBCU ORIGINAL
Edward Waters Claims Three SIAC Volleyball Awards; Albany State’s Anderson Also Honored
Edward Waters Claims Three SIAC Volleyball Awards; Albany State’s Anderson Also Honored
ATLANTA — Edward Waters turned an unbeaten week into three SIAC volleyball honors, with Jewel Helmuth, Dimaliz Figueroa and Naraiya Thompson joining Albany State’s Amiria Anderson among the Oct. 27 award winners.
Helmuth received Offensive Player of the Week after producing 26 kills, six digs, six service aces and four blocks in wins over Savannah State and Clark Atlanta. Against Clark Atlanta, she delivered 14 kills and all six of her weekly aces.
Figueroa earned Defensive Player of the Week with 44 digs across the two victories. The senior libero recorded a season-best 24 digs against Savannah State and added two aces for the week.
Thompson’s 93 assists earned the freshman Setter of the Week. She averaged 11.63 assists per set, contributing 15 digs and six aces. Her week included 43 assists against Savannah State and 50 against Clark Atlanta.
Anderson took Newcomer of the Week after helping Albany State defeat Benedict and Allen. The freshman totaled 28 kills, eight digs and two block assists, hitting .324 against Benedict and .429 against Allen.
South Carolina State, Alabama A&M Lead Updated Celebration Bowl Projections
South Carolina State and Alabama A&M have the strongest projected paths to Atlanta, while key victories by Howard and Bethune-Cookman have reshaped the chase for a Celebration Bowl berth.
The latest Toyota Championship Projection, released Oct. 28 and incorporating games through Oct. 24, gives South Carolina State a 40.63% chance of representing the MEAC in the Cricket Celebration Bowl presented by Toyota. Alabama A&M leads the SWAC with a 49.10% chance of winning its conference championship and advancing to Atlanta.
The projections reflect 10,000 simulated finishes to the season, using team strength, FCS scoring efficiency, conference standings, remaining schedules, game locations and applicable tiebreakers.
“Last weekend demonstrated why we introduced this projection,” said John T. Grant, executive director of the Cricket Celebration Bowl presented by Toyota.
Howard’s overtime victory against Morgan State and Bethune-Cookman’s narrow win over Jackson State were among the results that changed the outlook.
South Carolina State Takes the Lead in the MEAC
South Carolina State’s 22-7 victory over Norfolk State helped put the Bulldogs atop the MEAC projections. Howard moved into second after defeating Morgan State 26-20 in overtime, leaving the Bears close behind in third.
Together, those three programs account for nearly 94% of the model’s projected MEAC representatives.
| Team | Chance to Reach Celebration Bowl | South Carolina State | 40.63% | Howard | 27.94% | Morgan State | 25.40% | North Carolina Central | 4.10% | Delaware State | 1.16% | Norfolk State | 0.77% |
|---|
The next round of conference games could shift those numbers again. South Carolina State visits Morgan State on Thursday, Oct. 29, giving the Bulldogs an opportunity to secure a valuable head-to-head victory against a leading contender.
Howard travels to North Carolina Central on Saturday. NCCU enters after defeating Delaware State 31-12, and both teams will be looking to build on wins in their MEAC openers.
Alabama A&M Leads as Bethune-Cookman Gains Ground
Alabama A&M holds a 60.42% chance of winning the SWAC East and reaching the conference championship game. Its 49.10% chance of completing the journey to the Celebration Bowl is the highest of any SWAC program.
Bethune-Cookman made a significant move with its 24-21 victory over Jackson State. The Wildcats now have a 27.16% chance of winning the East and a 17.86% chance of reaching Atlanta.
Jackson State remains in contention, but its 3-2 conference record leaves the Tigers needing help. The model gives Jackson State a 10.53% chance of winning the division and an 8.07% chance of winning the SWAC championship.
Alabama A&M’s next test comes Saturday against Alabama State in the Magic City Classic. A Bulldogs victory would strengthen their position, while a Hornets win would create an opening for other East contenders.
Grambling Holds a Narrow Edge in the West
The SWAC West remains tightly contested, with Grambling State leading the division projections at 36.69%. Prairie View A&M follows at 32.90% after strengthening its profile with a 30-19 nonconference road victory over East Texas A&M.
Arkansas-Pine Bluff’s 31-28 win over Florida A&M helped keep the Golden Lions in the race. UAPB has a 14.92% chance of winning the West, followed by Alcorn State at 12.61%.
Southern sits at 2.71%, while Texas Southern has a 0.17% chance despite its 24-21 victory over the Jaguars.
The overall SWAC projections account for both winning a division and winning the conference championship game:
| Team | Chance to Reach Celebration Bowl | Alabama A&M | 49.10% | Bethune-Cookman | 17.86% | Grambling State | 9.57% | Prairie View A&M | 8.58% | Jackson State | 8.07% | Arkansas-Pine Bluff | 2.95% | Alcorn State | 2.35% | Alabama State | 1.03% | Southern | 0.42% | Mississippi Valley State | 0.04% | Texas Southern | 0.03% |
|---|
Florida A&M is listed as ineligible in the projection.
Games to Watch
Six matchups carry particular importance for the conference races this week. All times are Eastern.
| Matchup | Date | Time | Network | South Carolina State at Morgan State | Oct. |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESPNU | Howard at North Carolina Central | Oct. | |
| ESPN+ | Bethune-Cookman at Arkansas-Pine Bluff | Oct. | |
| SWAC TV | Alcorn State at Mississippi Valley State | Oct. | |
| SWAC TV | Alabama State vs. Alabama A&M | Oct. | |
| ESPN+ | Grambling State at Texas Southern | Oct. | |
| SWAC TV |
Bethune-Cookman’s trip to Arkansas-Pine Bluff will affect both SWAC divisions, while Grambling State and Alcorn State face road tests as they pursue the West title.
The projections measure possible outcomes based on current information. They do not guarantee results or fully account for injuries, turnovers, weather and other factors that can change a game.
The 2026 Cricket Celebration Bowl presented by Toyota is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 12, at noon ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. ABC will televise the matchup between the MEAC and SWAC champions.
Tags: HBCU football, Celebration Bowl, Toyota Championship Projection, MEAC football, SWAC football, South Carolina State, Alabama A&M, Howard University, Bethune-Cookman, Morgan State, Jackson State, Grambling State, Prairie View A&M, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, North Carolina Central, Magic City Classic, college football
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